Animal Lab Specialist: Western University

  • London, ON
  • Contract
  • Full-time
  • 16 days ago
Classification & Regular HoursHours per Week: 35Salary Grade: Level PPlease note, this is a 1 year temporary full time contract opportunity.About WesternWith an international reputation for success, Western ranks as one of Canada's top research-intensive universities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western also provides an exceptional employment experience, offering competitive salaries, a wide range of employment opportunities and one of Canada's most beautiful campuses.About UsACVS’s vision is to advance excellence in research through collaborative and innovative service, education, and animal welfare.ResponsibilitiesIn conjunction with subject matter experts, the Animal Care Committee (ACC) and ACVS leaders, the Animal Lab Specialist will assist with the development and delivery of the animal user training program to animal-based scientists within Western’s research community, as per CCAC, CALAM ‘Standards of Veterinary Care’ and related institutional policies and procedures. The role will act as the primary trainers for, and evaluators of, animal-users involved in hands-on workshops and competency assessments. The role will act as primary liaisons between trainees, their Principal Investigators and other stakeholders for training program-related communications. The role will maintain and distribute related records, bill for services, provide associated reports, and provide support for ACC site visits. The role will maintain related resources, including animals, spaces, equipment and supplies, in alignment with regulatory and institutional policies and budgetary constraints.The role will be shared and is affected by seasonal and situational demand fluctuations; therefore, the allocation of duties to each individual is based upon situational need. As with all positions within ACVS, this role requires the individual to consistently demonstrate sincere compassion for research animals, high adaptability, attention to detail, efficient multi-tasking, effective teamwork and communication skills, and discretion.QualificationsEducation:
  • 2 year Community College Diploma (Veterinary Technician)
  • Registered Veterinary Technician, Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians
  • CALAS Certification; Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (RLAT) completed or in progress is preferred
  • Certified in First Aid an asset
Experience:
  • 4 years’ experience as a veterinary technician
  • 6 months experience maintaining an online training platform
  • Experience as a veterinary technician in an academic research environment preferred
  • 1 year of experience providing hands-on training in species-specific techniques on live research animals would be an asset
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Demonstrated ability to provide instruction and hands-on demonstrations for groups and one-on-one
  • Demonstrated ability to accurately and consistently assess trainee skill levels
  • Knowledge and demonstrated skills pertaining to all common laboratory animals, including husbandry, common diseases and parasites
  • Demonstrated ability to recognize normal and abnormal behavior and conditions
  • Ability to conduct sample collection in all lab animal species, including but not limited to: blood collection, fecal collection, pelage exam and acetate tape sample collection
  • Ability to conduct common technical procedures for all lab animal species, including injections (SQ, IM, IV), gavaging, ear tagging, medication & fluid administration
  • Ability to administer anesthetics and analgesics, conduct effective anesthetic monitoring and effectively and calmly respond to anesthetic emergencies
  • Ability to use and calibrate monitoring equipment used at ACVS
  • Knowledge of analgesic and surgical principles, with an ability to provide surgical assistance, including surgical prep, post-operative care, surgical monitoring
  • Ability to operate and an understanding of lab and surgery equipment, including microscope, autoclave, centrifuge, fume hood; Vet Test Machine; Anesthetic machines
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with an ability to write clear and precise procedural documentation
  • Demonstrated ability to provide timely and consistent animal health professional care to research animals that aligns with regulatory and institutional requirements
  • Proven ability to work successfully in a team environment
  • Ability to identify and thoroughly investigate issues and collaboratively resolve problems using sound judgment, analytical and problem-solving skills in a consultative manner
  • Proven attention to detail, organizational and multi-tasking skills with demonstrated ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date records
  • Basic Computer Skills in Microsoft Office
  • Demonstrated ability to consistently utilize ergonomically sound processes in accordance with Western’s Rehabilitation Services assessments and OH&S guidelines while performing physical activities
Union StatementWestern welcomes applications from all qualified individuals; however, it is the university's policy to give first consideration to all qualified UWOSA applicants.Background ChecksPlease note, successful applicants may be required to produce a current police information record check(s) from a police service prior to commencing employment.Western Values DiversityThe University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.Please Note:Interested applicants are asked to visit: for further information and to apply online referencing job #40440 by 11:59PM on September 8, 2025.We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

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